This 265-page book is based upon a research project concerning the effects of a childhood history of abuse on a sample of 655 clinicians. Of this sample, 21% reported a history of childhood abuse. The book deals with variables, including the presence or absence of an abuse history, that affect the way professionals react to abuse allegations. The book ends with appendices containing the questionnaires, vignettes, and covering letters, a limited list of references, and a short subject and author index.

The authors report that their study indicates there can be major psychological effects from childhood abuse and that physical abuse results in more serious effects than does sexual abuse. They suggest that a personal abuse experience may influence later professional belief about abuse allegations and that professionals who have been abused are at increased risk for exploiting their clients.